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Benrath Castle was designed by Nicolas de Pigage, commissioned by Prince Karl Theodor of the Palatinate. Construction took place between 1755 and 1773.
Benrath is a stunning castle complex, featuring hunting grounds, expansive lakes, and an intricate drainage system. It stands as Dusseldorf's most significant architectural masterpiece, attracting a plethora of international tourists.
Join Mytour in discovering the architectural marvels, scenic landscapes, and museums within the grounds of Benrath Castle. A trip to Dusseldorf, Germany without visiting this castle is truly regrettable!
The architectural beauty of Benrath Castle
The architecture of Benrath exemplifies the transition between Baroque and Classic Rococo styles. Intricately decorated Rococo-style apartments and elegantly classical rooms are open to public exploration.
The exterior architecture of the castle, including the main building and Cavalier wing, follows the Baroque style. The main building, Corps de Logis, symmetrically divides areas: the east for scenic gardens, the west for hunting grounds. The castle's luxurious interior is a feast for the eyes of visitors.
Traveling to Germany to visit Benrath Castle offers the opportunity to explore and discover artifacts within its three magnificent museums: Corps de Logis Central Building, Natural History Museum, and European Garden Art Museum (2002). When touring Dusseldorf, you can join themed tours or immerse yourself in the serene, pristine surroundings.
The picturesque grounds of Benrath Castle
Located to the south of the castle is a sprawling 612,000 m² park. The oldest part of the park dates back to the 17th century during the castle's construction. A 470-meter long reflecting pond forms the central axis corresponding to the building's central axis, adorned with beautiful vaults and grandiose entrance halls. Surrounding the pond are lush green lawns and towering shady trees.
The castle grounds feature exquisite private gardens, including the French Baroque garden to the east and the English garden planted in the early 19th century to the west. Benrath Park is not just a work of art but also a cultural and natural heritage. Its development as a heritage site has made it a unique urban entertainment area, home to over 80 bird species, more than 300 species of beetles, and various other North American plant species.
The French Garden
To the east of the main building lies the French-style private garden of Electress Elisabeth Auguste. The garden's name derives from French Baroque art with strict geometric principles. To the east, there is a waterfall and water features with 6 small fountains installed between 1955 and 1956. To the west is a flower bed often planted in spring and summer after the park is restored according to the Baroque model.
The English Garden
To the west of the castle is Carl Theodor's private garden. Initially designed by Maximilian Friedrich Weyhe, the garden was rearranged by Weyhe's cousin Peter Joseph Lenne by 1840, with a curved pond, natural plantings on both sides, and a small bridge across the pond. In the late 19th century, rare shrubs were planted near the main building such as Ginko and Redwoods. In autumn and winter, the changing colors of these trees create a wonderfully romantic atmosphere for the garden.
Unique Museums
Natural History Museum: The museum opened in the west wing of the castle in 1929. It is dedicated to the natural history of the Lower Rhine region and the Niederbergisches countries. Covering an area of approximately 800 m², the museum showcases topics such as the changes of the Rhine over centuries and the flora and fauna of the area.
European Garden Art Museum: Since April 2002, the European Garden Art Museum has officially opened in the east wing of Benrath Castle. Founded by director Gabriele Uerscheln, this themed museum is unique in that it focuses solely on European garden art. Benrath Castle, with its vast gardens, further embellishes Dusseldorf as a stunning 'garden city,' leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
